Rosales has been ruling the roost since he bought the store in his early 20s. He had spent some time in the Army and was hoping to leave his desk job for an opportunity to open a hardware store. Luckily, his friend knew someone for him to talk to.

Even though he started with nothing -- he had to mortgage his family's house to buy the store -- the business was soon up and running, thanks in large part to the contractors who were in the midst of building high-rise office buildings in the 60s and 70s.

It was only when his business partner Norm Farr decided to retire this year that Rosales decided to close the book on this chapter.

His post-retirement plans? He plans to volunteer to deliver meals to senior citizens or drive them to doctor's appointments.